05 Acura TL Owners Manual

The 2005 Acura TL is a luxury sports sedan featuring a 3.2L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, advanced navigation system, hands-free phone system, premium audio system, leather interior, and comprehensive safety features including dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA). Below are key sections for vehicle operation, maintenance, features, and troubleshooting.

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.2L V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, leather interior, power moonroof, automatic climate control, navigation system, premium audio system.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.2L SOHC V6 with VTEC
Transmission	5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
Navigation System	Voice-activated GPS navigation with touch screen
Audio System	Premium 8-speaker system with 6-disc CD changer
Climate Control	Dual-zone automatic climate control
Seating	Leather-trimmed seats with 8-way power adjustment
Safety	Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, ABS, VSA
Exterior	Power moonroof, auto-on/off headlights
Interior	Power windows, locks, and mirrors
Fuel System	17.1 gallon fuel tank, premium unleaded recommended

Getting Started

Familiarize yourself with basic vehicle operations before driving.

1. Key and remote: Use master key for ignition; remote for door locks and trunk.
2. Starting the engine: Insert key, press brake pedal, turn to START position.
3. Adjust seating position: Use power seat controls for optimal driving position.
4. Mirror adjustment: Power adjust side mirrors for proper visibility.
5. Seat belt usage: Always wear seat belts; ensure proper fit.

WARNING! Never leave children unattended in vehicle. Always engage parking brake when parked.

Instrument Panel

Dashboard features speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning indicators.

Warning Lights: Check engine, battery, oil pressure, brake system, ABS, VSA, airbag, low fuel, door/truck open.

Controls: Steering wheel controls for audio and cruise control; center console for climate and audio; navigation screen for vehicle settings.

Displays: Odometer, trip meter, outside temperature, maintenance reminder, navigation guidance.

Driving Your TL

• Starting: Press brake, turn key to START; release when engine starts.
• Sequential SportShift: Move gear selector to S position, use paddle shifters or gear selector for manual shifting.
• Cruise Control: Set speed with SET button on steering wheel.
• Braking: Use firm pressure on brake pedal; ABS prevents wheel lock-up.
• Parking: Apply parking brake fully; shift to Park.

CAUTION! Always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.

Navigation System

Voice-activated GPS navigation with touch screen interface.

1. Enter destination: Use touch screen or voice commands.
2. Route guidance: Follow visual and voice prompts.
3. Points of interest: Search for gas stations, restaurants, etc.
4. System settings: Adjust screen brightness, voice volume, map display.
5. Traffic information: Available in equipped areas.

Note: Keep navigation DVD updated for accurate routing.

Audio System

Premium 8-speaker audio system with AM/FM radio, 6-disc CD changer, and audio controls.

Operation: Power on/off with VOLUME knob; select source with MODE button.

Features: Radio presets (6 AM, 12 FM), CD playback, automatic volume adjustment with speed.

Steering Wheel Controls: Volume up/down, source selection, track skip, preset station selection.

Audio Settings: Bass, treble, fader, balance adjustments available in audio menu.

Climate Control

Dual-zone automatic climate control system with air conditioning and heating.

1. Auto mode: Set desired temperature; system automatically adjusts fan speed and air distribution.
2. Manual control: Adjust fan speed, temperature, and air distribution manually.
3. Defrost: Use front defroster for quick windshield clearing.
4. Rear defogger: Activate to clear rear window.
5. Air conditioning: Use for dehumidification and cooling.

Tip: Use recirculation mode in heavy traffic to reduce outside odors.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Service	Interval	Description
Oil Change	7,500 miles or 12 months	Replace engine oil and filter
Tire Rotation	7,500 miles	Rotate tires for even wear
Air Filter	30,000 miles	Replace engine air filter
Brake Fluid	3 years	Replace brake fluid
Transmission Fluid	60,000 miles	Replace automatic transmission fluid
Spark Plugs	105,000 miles	Replace spark plugs
Timing Belt	105,000 miles	Replace timing belt and water pump

Maintenance Minder: Follow codes displayed in instrument panel for service needs.

Safety Features

Comprehensive safety systems for occupant protection.

• Airbags: Dual-stage front airbags, side airbags for front occupants
• ABS: Anti-lock Braking System prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking
• VSA: Vehicle Stability Assist helps maintain control during cornering
• Seat Belts: Three-point seat belts with pretensioners
• LATCH: Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children system
• Security: Theft-deterrent system with remote entry

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Children 12 and under should ride in back seat.

Specifications

• Engine: 3.2L SOHC V6 with VTEC
• Horsepower: 258 hp @ 6200 rpm
• Torque: 233 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
• Transmission: 5-speed automatic with Sequential SportShift
• Fuel Capacity: 17.1 gallons
• Fuel Requirement: Premium unleaded (91 octane or higher)
• Curb Weight: 3,589 lbs
• Wheelbase: 108.1 inches
• Length: 189.4 inches
• Width: 72.2 inches
• Height: 56.7 inches

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, security system	Check battery connections; use master key; jump start if needed
Check engine light on	Engine management issue	Have system scanned for diagnostic codes
Navigation screen blank	System error, fuse	Check navigation fuse; restart vehicle
CD player not working	Disc error, mechanical issue	Eject and reload disc; check for disc damage
Poor fuel economy	Maintenance needed, driving habits	Check air filter, tire pressure; adjust driving style
VSA light on	System fault, sensor issue	Have system diagnosed by dealer
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Have brake rotors inspected and resurfaced

Emergency: For roadside assistance, call 1-800-382-2238.

Service: Contact Acura dealer for scheduled maintenance and repairs.